Reducing Fire and Drought Risk: Protecting Our Drinking Water and Homes from Wildfires
We are delighted to present two presentations by local Forest Ecologist Erik Piikkila from Yellow Point Ecological Society.
Thursday, June 1st, 7pm – 8.30pm – Online Zoom
And
Sunday, June 4th, 2pm to 4pm – Field trip to Duck Creek Park
On June 1st, join us for an enlightening Q&A session with Erik Piikkila, a forest ecologist, as we explore the state of our local forest and the importance of caring for them. Our forests play a crucial role in reducing the risks of devastating fires and ensuring clean drinking water, making it vital for us to understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy forests as a landowner and community member.
Erik will be answering questions such as: What are the warning signs of an unhealthy forest? How can we reduce the risk of fire around our homes? Why are forests connected to our drinking water? And why should we care about doing anything about fostering healthy forests? He will also discuss the importance of First Nations Traditional Ecological Knowledge and how we can learn from it to better manage our forests.
In this session, you will gain valuable insights into sustainable forest management practices in the context of climate change, and how you can play a role in enhancing the state of our forests. Whether you are a homeowner or simply concerned about the health of our forests, this session will provide you with the knowledge you need to make a difference.
As a follow-up to the Zoom session, we will be heading out for a field trip to Duck Creek on June 4th from 2 – 4pm where Erik will provide real-life examples of what he discussed during the Q&A session. By seeing firsthand how healthy forests operate and what signs to look out for, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainable forest management.
Join us for an immersive experience in the forest and discover how you can make a difference by caring for our local island forests.
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FIELD TRIP to Duck Creek Park with forest ecologist Erik Piikkila
Sunday, June 4th – 2pm – 4pm
Meeting spot – at signpost at Sunset Drive entrance
Come and explore the forest and ecosystem of Duck Creek Park with forest ecologist, Erik Piikkila. This exciting field trip will take place on Sunday, June 4th from 2pm to 4pm.
During this event, Erik will guide us through the park, pointing out key indicators of forest health. He will also discuss the benefits of ecological forest thinning and how it differs from traditional logging practices. Erik will explain why it is essential for the island to nurture healthy forests and draw the connection between forest health, drinking water security and forest fire risk reduction.
This event is perfect for anyone interested in learning how they can safeguard their home from catastrophic wildfires beyond Fire Smarting their property and ensuring access to clean drinking water, while enhancing the ecosystems and productivity of the forests around them.
Bring your questions and curiosity, and learn how healthy forests contribute to a healthy community, especially during times of a changing climate.
Please leave your dog at home. The event will take place rain or shine. We recommend bringing snacks and dressing appropriately for the weather.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the beautiful Duck Creek Park with a knowledgeable forest ecologist.